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Germany Ends Greenland Military Mission in 44 Hours Amid Trump Tariff Tensions
German Bundeswehr troops abruptly withdrew from Greenland following a secret Berlin recall order on January 18, 2026, amid escalating U.S.-Denmark tensions over Trump's push to acquire the territory and related tariff threats rattling NATO allies.[3]
Why It Matters
The rapid withdrawal highlights fractures in NATO unity, as Trump's pressure on Greenland exposes strategic rifts between the U.S. and European allies, potentially weakening Arctic security and alliance cohesion.[1][2][5]
Timeline
5 Events
German Troops Complete Withdrawal from Greenland
January 18, 2026
Germany ended its Greenland mission in just 44 hours following the recall, amid Trump tariff standoff.[3]
Berlin Issues Secret Withdrawal Order for German Troops
Morning of January 18, 2026
Bundeswehr in Greenland received abrupt recall directive from Berlin with no reasoning provided.[3]
Trump Refuses to Rule Out NATO Exit Over Greenland
Thursday (week of Jan 15, 2026)
President Trump, speaking in the Oval Office, refused to rule out leaving NATO amid pressure to annex Greenland, calling U.S. control unacceptable otherwise.[1]
Danish Leaders Affirm NATO Role in Greenland Defense
Thursday (week of Jan 15, 2026)
Denmark's Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen stated Greenland’s defense is a NATO concern. Defence Minister Troels Lund Poulsen announced plans for a larger, more permanent NATO presence.[1]
Denmark Expands Military Presence in Greenland
Wednesday (week of Jan 14, 2026)
Denmark announced expansion of its military presence on and around Greenland after talks with U.S. officials yielded no results on Greenland's future. Sweden and Germany committed to send military personnel.[1]